The 1987 Topps baseball card set is one of the most iconic and valuable sets from the late 1980s. While the entire set itself does not command huge prices, there are certainly some standout individual cards that can be quite valuable depending on grade and condition. Let’s take a closer look at some of the top cards from the 1987 Topps set and what they tend to sell for in different states of preservation.
One of the most sought after rookie cards from the 1987 set is that of pitcher Orel Hershiser of the Los Angeles Dodgers. Hershiser would go on to win both the Cy Young Award and World Series MVP that same year in 1988, capping off one of the greatest seasons ever by a pitcher. In near mint to mint condition, Hershiser’s rookie card typically sells in the $100-300 range. Higher graded copies in the PSA 8-10 range can bring $500-1000 or more due to his iconic season and status as one of the set’s top rookies.
Another valuable rookie is that of slugging outfielder Barry Bonds, who was just starting his career with the Pittsburgh Pirates in 1987. Even back then, scouts knew Bonds had the skills to be a true superstar. Low to mid grade Bonds rookies sell for $50-150, while higher graded PSA 8-10 examples can reach $300-500 or more. With Bonds going on to break the all-time home run record, his rookie card remains a key piece for collectors.
Hall of Famer Greg Maddux had his first Topps card in 1987 as well while pitching for the Chicago Cubs. Considered one of the greatest pitchers ever for his pinpoint control and longevity, Maddux rookies sell based more on condition. Lower grade copies go for $30-80, PSA 8s bring $150-300, and pristine PSA 10 Maddux rookies have sold for well over $1000.
Another all-time pitching great with a rookie card in the 1987 set is Tom Glavine, who was a rising young lefty with the Atlanta Braves at the time. Glavine rookies in lower grades sell around $20-50, while mint PSA 9-10 copies can reach the $150-300 range. Like Maddux, the Hall of Fame resume adds value long term to Glavine’s first card.
Power hitting slugger Mark McGwire had his breakout season in 1987 with the Athletics, smashing 49 home runs. McGwire rookie cards in average condition sell for $30-80, with higher graded versions in the $100-250 range depending on exact grade. His epic home run chase against Sammy Sosa in 1998 only increased interest in McGwire’s early career cards like his 1987 rookie.
Hall of Famer Tony Gwynn had been with the San Diego Padres since 1982 but 1987 marked his first Topps base card. Considered one of the best pure hitters ever, Gwynn rookies sell based on condition from $20-50 in lower grades up to $100-250 for pristine PSA 10 copies. Gwynn’s career .338 batting average and eight batting titles make his rookie a must-have for many collectors.
Another star hitter with the Detroit Tigers in 1987 was Alan Trammell. While not a true “rookie” in the set, Trammell’s career was taking off and he would be named MVP that same year. Trammell’s 1987 Topps card sells for $15-40 in average condition but can reach $75-150 for top graded PSA 10 copies due to his status as a hometown Tigers star.
While the entire 1987 Topps baseball set may not demand huge prices on the secondary market, there are certainly some standout individual cards that can be quite valuable depending on the player and exact condition or grade. Rookies of Hershiser, Bonds, Maddux, Glavine and McGwire tend to be the most sought after, along with stars like Gwynn, Trammell and others. For the true high-end collector, pristine PSA 10 copies of the top rookie cards can sell for thousands due to their iconic status within the set and the players’ eventual Hall of Fame careers.
